It is with immense sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the sudden and heartbreaking passing of Gillian Gratton of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. Her departure has sent waves of grief throughout her family, circle of friends, the local pet community, and everyone who was fortunate enough to have known and loved her.
Gillian was not just a name, not just a face in the crowd—she was a radiant force of nature, whose compassion and commitment to making the world a better place left an indelible mark.
Gillian was best known not only for her unwavering kindness and warm, joyful spirit, but also for her incredible advocacy and work within the animal rescue world. She was a tireless supporter of New Hope Dog Rescue, one of Saskatoon’s most beloved rescue organizations. Her dedication to the welfare of dogs went far beyond what most people would consider volunteer work—it was her calling, her heart’s mission. She poured herself into it with everything she had.
Over the years, Gillian became a beloved member of the New Hope family. She wasn’t just someone who gave from the sidelines—she was actively involved, every step of the way. She fostered dogs in need, often opening her home to pups in crisis, helping them heal and transition into forever homes. She organized and hosted adoption events, promoted awareness through her network, and offered help to fellow fosters—whether it was a bag of dog food, a word of encouragement, or a listening ear. In a world that often feels rushed and impersonal, Gillian brought warmth and humanity back into every interaction.
Through her business, Pet Planet Primrose, Gillian created more than just a place to buy pet supplies—she built a sanctuary. Her store was a community hub, filled with laughter, genuine conversation, and deep care for both animals and their humans. Customers weren’t just customers to Gillian—they were friends, family, and fellow champions of animal welfare. She remembered names, she remembered stories, and she always asked how your dog was doing. Her attention to detail and her kindness made Pet Planet a special place—an extension of her heart.
People who knew Gillian describe her as radiant, welcoming, and uplifting. At local dog sporting events and community adoption fairs, her presence was impossible to miss. She brought an infectious energy wherever she went. Whether she was cheering on others during competitions or jumping in to help set up booths and wrangle animals, she brought joy to every gathering. She celebrated others’ successes with authentic enthusiasm and offered comfort when things didn’t go as planned.
Gillian’s strength lay in her unwavering optimism and her ability to uplift others, even in the smallest moments. She never did things halfway—she gave her all, whether it was a heartfelt chat with a customer, a last-minute rescue effort, or a community fundraiser. Her life was defined by action, fueled by love.
And that love extended deeply to her own furry companions, particularly her beloved heart dogs, Gambit and Cardi. These dogs were more than pets to her—they were family, soulmates, and loyal confidants. The bond she shared with them was beautiful and inspiring, and it’s comforting to imagine their joyful reunion now, together again across the rainbow bridge.
The news of Gillian’s passing came as a devastating shock. Her absence leaves a void that words can’t fill. In this time of mourning, her family and friends are grateful for the outpouring of support and heartfelt condolences from the wider community. It’s clear that Gillian’s influence stretched far and wide—touching people she may have never even realized she helped.
A for Gillian will be held on Thursday, April 17, at 2:00 PM, at Saskatoon Funeral Home. All are welcome—family, friends, fellow animal lovers, and anyone whose life was brightened by Gillian’s incredible presence. This gathering will be a space to honor her memory, to share stories, shed tears, and maybe even a few smiles through the pain—because that’s how Gillian lived: by bringing people together and making every moment count.
Her sudden departure is a reminder of how fragile life is, and how important it is to love loudly and live with purpose. Gillian did both. She led by example, teaching all of us to advocate for those without voices, to be present for those in need, and to build community with kindness.
In the days ahead, let us each carry forward the lessons she gifted us. Let us be generous with our time, thoughtful with our words, and compassionate in our actions. Let us remember to greet strangers with warmth, to support our local rescues, and to cherish every furry friend that crosses our path. These are the values Gillian lived by, and they are the values that will keep her spirit alive in us all.
Though she may no longer walk beside us in the physical world, Gillian’s legacy is deeply rooted in our hearts. Every adoption that finds a dog their forever home, every act of kindness in her name, every story shared at her memorial—all of it becomes a part of the tapestry of her legacy. A legacy of love. A legacy of service. A legacy of light.
To Gillian’s family, we offer our deepest sympathies and prayers for comfort in this unimaginably difficult time. We grieve with you. We honor her with you. And we promise to never forget the remarkable woman who gave so much, loved so deeply, and asked for so little in return.
Rest peacefully, Gillian Gratton. You were one of a kind. Your light will never go out, and your impact will never fade.
